Squishy Moments

1. get that tongue back in your mouth, 2. my boy, 3. goof ball, 4. smiley, 5. weeeeee!, 6. silly, 7. smile, 8. worth waiting for...

Have you ever had that it-can't-get-better-than-this feeling that makes your heart feel all warm and fuzzy? My husband calls it having the "squishies." This was one of those moments. Ren and I were just hanging out when he hugged me. As I looked down at his sweet face, it hit me: this won't last forever. Of course, he'll still hug me but it will never be exactly the same. Even as I write this only months after our photo shoot, things have already changed!! He is not only taller but also demanding more space: "Mom, I'm seven now."

I love that he's growing and becoming more independent but I miss the incessant hugs!

Journaling Ideas: Take a look around you and savor the sweet moments in life! What gives you that squishy feeling? What do you love most about those moments? What will you miss? Be sure to capture squishy moments with your journal or camera - they will pass!

and the winner is...

Heather said...
The sunshine...finally sunshine is here and inspires me to get some stuff done. Lots of clouds and rain makes me feel lazy.

Just send me an email Heather to work out the delivery details. Thank you everyone for sharing!!

It's good to be home. We went camping with some friends to an RV resort in southern Minnesota. In three days, we:

• Burned through 18 bundles of wood;
  
• Killed dozens of bees and biting flies by deftly maneuvering a Racquet Zapper;
• Made three trips to Cabela's for supplies (i.e. fudge);
• Had several encounters with exotic creatures, including a Tomato Hornworm.

One of the most memorable moments had to be when my 9-year old woke me Monday morning saying, "Mom... mom... MOM, THERE IS A CATERPILLAR CRAWLING ON MY FACE."

Camping - gotta love it.

my chico.

Twelve years ago today, I married this man. I haven't always been so good about remembering the actual wedding date (thank goodness for scrapbooks) but I will never forget the day.

Looking back through the years, we've had our share of glorious ups and rock-bottom downs. I am so thankful I married this man - my Chico. Together we have celebrated the joy of having two boys, together we have weathered the frustrations of having two boys! Together we have been blessed with much, together we have lost much. Together we have reached dreams, together we are making new ones. The difficulties have made us strong and wise; the good times... icing on the cake. I look forward to many more years together!!

Love never gives up.
Love cares more for others than for self.
Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.
Love doesn’t strut,
Doesn’t have a swelled head,
Doesn’t force itself on others,
Isn’t always “me first,”
Doesn’t fly off the handle,
Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,
Doesn’t revel when others grovel,
Takes pleasure in the flowering of truth,
Puts up with anything,
Trusts God always,
Always looks for the best,
Never looks back,
But keeps going to the end.

1 Corinthians 14:4-7 (MSG)

first game.

Today was the first game of the season and they won: 19-0!! Way to go, Golden Steelers (or Hornets, there is some division on the name).

What inspires YOU?

I'm in another one of those spots again - greatly needing to unplug, unwind, and get back to basics. Our calendar has been crazy. I am not used to having something scheduled every night; it's making me a little crazy!! Thankfully, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

I have some new scrapbooking toys but haven't had a chance to play with them yet. This is one of my favorites! This paper album kit has everything you need to complete a small gift album and I will be sharing it with one of you!

To be included in the drawing, just post a comment to this entry: What inspires YOU? Take some time to think about it and then share whatever comes to mind! The drawing will be on Wednesday, August 29. You're welcome to comment each day (this will increase your chances of winning). Keep your eyes open for daily inspiration...

my #1 weakness.

Details add rich color and depth to our lives (the same happens in journaling). I relish details and have an eye for the little things: fine nuances in language, beauty in the midst of chaos, the unique in everyday. Unfortunately, this strength has also been my greatest weakness.

I have been reading up on personality types, looking to learn a bit more about myself and those around me. While zeroing in on the strengths and weaknesses of my type, this jumped out at me: May be obsessive and passionate about details that may be unimportant to the big picture.

Ouch! As I look back on my life, the truth of this statement rings loudly.

For nearly a decade, I struggled with an eating disorder (which was an obsession of details) - counting calories, weighing, measuring, and scrutinizing every inch of my body. I vividly recall a time when my doctor asked me to draw a picture of myself. She'd taped a large sheet of white paper to the wall and asked me to create a mirror image of my body. After doing so, she traced the actual outline of my body on top of the drawing. As I stepped back to take a look, I was stunned! My obsession had created a very distorted and inaccurate image that looked nothing like me. I had spent so much time focusing on the details that I completely lost sight of the big picture!

Not only do I notice the details, I sometimes get hung up in them! When this happens, I have to "zoom out" a little to put things into proper perspective.

Jesus said, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9.

Journaling Ideas: What are your strengths and weaknesses? Is there an overlap? How do you stay balanced? Describe a time in your life that reflects this strength or weakness in action.

and the winner is...

Kamy Carlson said...
Hey - I love your blog - I check in almost everyday. Great inspiration to see joy in even the little things. Thanks! Kamy

I'll connect with you via email Kamy to work out the delivery details. Congratulations and thanks for playing!

i spy my little guy.

The party was a hit! The boys were invited over to our crime scene to uncover the Mystery of the Stolen Gift. Everyone was fingerprinted and took turns with the magnifying glass, comparing each set of prints with those of the culprit.

We had some pizza, worked on chalk drawings in the garage, and hunted down a few worms (not part of the original plan). They loved it! You can find more photos at my Flickr page and that link is here.

i love surprises.

And I hope you do, too! I'll continue to do this every once in a while just to sHAke thINgs uP. Sometimes the treats will be fun, new *CM* scrapbooking supplies and sometimes they will be non-scrapbooking related (similar to the goodies shown here).

Just post a comment to this entry (even a simple "hi" will do) and your name will be entered into the drawing! One winner will be chosen to receive both gifts. If you do not live near me, I will ship them to you at my cost.

I'll leave the drawing open from now until Tuesday, August 21st. I hope to hear from you!

The dreaded M-Day has arrived.

Today is the day Drew and his brother are moving to Michigan. The boys were together yesterday for one last playdate. They spent their time the way they usually do - with a little computer time, multiple lightsaber battles, and a Webkinz adventure.

Then it was time to say goodbye.

Jennifer and I (the moms) tried to keep it upbeat; we talked about staying connected and the possibility of a future visit. Then they were off. Once the door closed behind them, Meeey and Ren started to cry. Ren stood inside the window frame to the left side of the door, while Meeley stood inside the one to the right. They just stood there watching and crying. They pulled out of the driveway and Meeley ran to another window to catch one last view of them driving off.

Meeley woke up crying this morning, saying he said he'd had the "worst nightmare ever." He wouldn't tell me what it was about but I imagine the stress of this big change is just coming out a little sideways. He'll be okay. They'll be okay. It's just a little tough right now.

more cool things.

I created this notebook by using a simple Mead Notebook, small hole punch, and some Creative Memories stickers and papers. I raided my hubby's stash in the garage for the twine. The idea for it came about after our first camping trip of the summer. There is an entry for each new campground we visit, which includes information about the **best sites** and special features of the park. It also includes a review of the restrooms (this can make or break a trip for me). Each family member makes an entry into the notebook, sharing their favorite memory of the trip. I keep it in our camping stash so we know exactly where it is when we need it!

I have one more really cool thing to share - totally unrelated to camping. We had some friends over last weekend when I spotted this "hip, cool, and extreme" purse my friend Sharon was toting. Very cool.

say "cheeeethe"

Ren (and mom) had a big day yesterday. Can you tell what's missing? Not one, not two, but FOUR OF THEM!

God's Love

My response is to get down on my knees before the Father, this magnificent Father who parcels out all heaven and earth. I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit—not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength—that Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you'll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Test its length! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17-19 (MSG)

I love taking photographs of nature: sunrises and sunsets, stormy clouds, and yes - even bugs. I put them all into a special 7x7 album, paired up with Scripture.

There is something powerful about it.

this one *still* makes me laugh!

It was a typical day in February of 2003. I was preparing lunch for the boys (mine and the three I provided daycare for), madly rushing about to get food on the table before P.J. had to leave for preschool. When lunch was ready, I went in search of the boys - this is what I found!! Meeley, P.J., and Ren were each sporting very manly squiggles. When I questioned Meeley, he proudly told me they were moustaches. His handiwork, of course.

Meeley has sadly since outgrown his love of handmade "tattoos." I am so thankful I can relive moments like this one with just the turn of a page!

A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired. Proverbs 17:22 (MSG).

Journaling Ideas: Resurrect one of your long forgotten memories! Think back to funny moments and take 5-10 minutes to list everything that comes to mind. Choose one moment from the list and describe in detail what happened. What about that particular memory strikes your funny bone? How long ago did it happen? Was it as funny then as it is now?

35 days and counting...

until our next Beth Moore Bible Study begins! If you're interested in joining us, we'll be doing a recently revised study called "A Woman's Heart... God's Dwelling Place" from 9:30 am-11:30am on Wednesday mornings, September 19-February 27. If you are not familiar with Beth Moore, just click on the "Wednesdays with Beth" link on the left side of the page to check her out on video. She is a gifted speaker who will make you laugh and cry! The study is open to everyone, you do not need to attend Hosanna to join us. The cost is $25 and includes a workbook, snacks and beverages. Childcare is available with pre-registration ($2.50 per hour/per child). Click here to find the childcare link - register under H! Kid Kare payments.

If you would like to register for the study, you can do so in person at Hosanna at the Information Station or by contacting Julianne Skaar at 952-431-6416.

One more thing for all of you Beth Moore fans... she has a blog that she shares with her daughter Amanda! You can reach it by clicking here. Have a great day!!

just for **fun**

The Myers-Briggs personality types have been a big topic of conversation around here these last few weeks. I found a free online personality test very similar to the Myers-Briggs (which costs around $100). Click here to take the free personality test! After you've taken the test, click here to learn more about your specific type in the areas of personal growth, relationships, and careers.

A friend also recommended the book "Please Understand Me" as a great tool in helping to understand your character. It can also be helpful in understanding your spouse, children, and friends!

I discovered that I am an INFJ (which makes up less than 1% of the population). No wonder I always feel like the odd man out!! So, what type are you?

Lita's Gifts

Grandma Lita has a knack for finding and creating unique gifts. They are not only one-of-a-kind, but usually hold great meaning as well. Here are several examples:

• At my bridal shower, I received a white t-shirt personalized with a photograph of my soon-to-be husband. It was an elementary-aged hubby dressed as Superman, wearing his "tighty-whities" over his pajamas for the proper effect.
• When I was pregnant with our first child, she gave me another special gift - a small box filled with some of hubby's baby clothes and shoes.
• She created a set of placemats for her children and their spouses one year, using old artwork and school assignments. The hubby and I received some lovely pieces he'd authored at 3-1/2 years old, first and second grade.
• Long ago, we gave Lita a flower press for her birthday. She used that same press, flowers from her magnificent garden, and our wedding invitation to create a beautiful framed piece that she gave to hubby and I as a gift.

Her talent extends to the boys as well. Instead of running to Target to fuel their Star Wars passion, she has given them some of hubby's old memorabilia along with other unique finds. Remember when Burger King used to have those themed drinking glasses? Yep, we have Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker. Ren's 7th birthday is another great example. He received a Zippy Zither from Grandma Lita for his birthday. Apparently, it was a toy that my hubby and his siblings had enjoyed as children. Somehow, she had managed to find one still in the box!

These examples give insight into my mother-in-law; they reflect her creativity, thoughtfulness, and depth. They share something that is sometimes difficult to put into words.

Journaling Ideas: Think of someone you know and zero in on one thing in particular they are good at. Is it making conversation? Entertaining? Do they have a hobby? Are they good with cars? Can they cook? Maybe they have a knack for wrapping gifts, finding the best deals, or decorating. List several examples of their "talent" and look for what is revealed about their personality.

August Faithbooking Lesson

I thought I'd try posting the lesson from our Faithbooking Crop on Saturday. To read it, just click on the lesson to enlarge.

The Faithbooking Crops are held once each month at Hosanna Lutheran Church in Lakeville, MN. They are the second Saturday of the month from 9:00 am-4:00 pm (with longer crops once each quarter, from 9:00 am-9:00 pm). The crops are free. There is a new lesson each month, and those who attend also receive *free supplies* to create a page. You do not need to attend Hosanna to join us!

Those focus of these crops is going deeper in your albums, no matter where you are at with your faith. Journaling is usually the most neglected part of a scrapbook page and sadly, it is also the heart of your album!

The next Faithbooking Crop will be on Saturday, October 13, 2007 from 9:00 am-9:00 pm (I'm taking September off). If you'd like to join us, just call or email me to reserve a spot!!

MAKE time to play.

No Time to Play

My precious boy with the golden hair
Came up one day beside my chair
And fell upon his bended knee
And said, “Oh, Mommy, please play with me!”
I said, “Not now, go on and play;
I’ve got so much to do today.”
He smiled through tears in eyes so blue
When I said, “We’ll play when I get through.”
But the chores lasted all through the day
And I never did find time to play.
When supper was over and dishes done,
I was much too tired for my little son.
I tucked him in and kissed his cheek
And watched my angel fall asleep.
As I tossed and turned upon my bed,
Those words kept ringing in my head,
“Not now, son, go on and play,
I’ve got so much to do today.”
I fell asleep and in a minute’s span,
My little boy is a full-grown man.
No toys are there to clutter the floor;
No dirty fingerprints on the door;
No snacks to fix; no tears to dry;
The rooms just echo my lonely sigh.
And now I’ve got the time to play;
But my precious boy is gone away.
I awoke myself with a pitiful scream
And realized it was just a dream
For across the room in his little bed,
Lay my curly-haired boy, the sleepy-head.
My work will wait ‘til another day
For now I must find some time to play.

By Dianna (Mrs. Joe) Neal

I struggle daily to find balance between what I need to do and what can wait. I usually make promises to myself and my kids, work really hard at changing myself, fumble around for a week or two before it hits: Only God can change me! Then I do what I should have done in first place - pray. I tell the Lord my struggles, apologize for my shortcomings (including trying to "go it alone"), and ask for His forgiveness. Then I ask Him to help me change. It may take days or it may take weeks - each time I mess up, I ask the Lord again to forgive me and I thank Him. I am not perfect, nor does He expect me to be. He just asks that I recognize my problems and my need for Him! I am so thankful I don't have to go it alone.

what boys do in church...

My hubby found this in the van tonight. Ren (my 7 year old) tore it off the church bulletin one Sunday and filled it out. If you can't see the photo clearly on the post, just click on it to enlarge. It is absolutely hilarious! My favorite part is under the heading of "Prayer Requests - Needs or Concerns" where he added:

When will this be done?

two pails to dump on the pastor.

Ironically, Pastor Derek's sermon was entitled "Kindness: The Right Attitudes." Ren obviously missed the message. What a little goofball!

Life is messy sometimes.

mess·y /ˈmɛsi/ –adjective, mess·i·er, mess·i·est.

1. characterized by a dirty, untidy, or disordered condition.
2. causing a mess.
3. embarrassing, difficult, or unpleasant.
4. characterized by moral or psychological confusion.

Not only can my house look messy but I begin to FEEL like it with too much time away from a schedule. My biggest problem is not the mess, but learning to deal with it. Instead of focusing on the things scattered around me (circumstances, emotions, LEGOS), I need to pull back and take a look at what is really important; it's time to simplify. This is where I have found God's word (the Bible) to be very helpful; it's my "how-to" manual for the way I live and order my thoughts.

Joyce Meyer just came out with a new book "100 Ways to Simply Your Life" - here's a sampling of the chapters:

• Keep God First
• Learn How to Say No
• Get Your Mind Off Yourself
• Be Satisfied with What You Have
• Don't Worry about Tomorrow
• Avoid Excess
• Choose Quality over Quantity
• Don't Be Easily Offended
• Be Realistic in Your Expectations
• Don't Be Judgmental
• Live with Margin
• Cultivate Solitude

Each chapter is written around a particular Bible verse - simple and to the point. It's a great book.

My goals for today: (1) to focus less on the tasks and more on the relationships around me; (2) to live in and enjoy the moment; (3) to watch my thinking and words.

Journaling Ideas:Reflect on the definition of "messy" above. What kind of mess do you have in your life right now? What do you do when life becomes disordered? What is your personality like in the face of physical or mental clutter - do you just "go with the flow" or are you more of a "list maker"? Look at your priorities - what is really important to you right now? What could you do to simplify things?

Way 2 Cool!

My friend Tilly shared this cool new place with me last night! If your passion is photography, you'll have to check it out (just click on the link above to see the website). The place is called "Ekcetera" and is located in Inver Grove Heights. You can use their studio - complete with backdrops and lighting - to take photos of your kids. They also offer ideas & inspiration in the areas of home decor, cooking, and more.

Check out these cool birthday invitations! The Family Fun website has some awesome party ideas. Ren immediately zeroed in on the "Spy" theme. I am not sure if you can see the detail from this shot, but the party information had to be filled in BACKWARDS. It was quite the task. The boy receiving the invitation would then have to use a mirror to "decode" the secret message.

*this* is faith in action

Amy commented to my post "purpose in ALL things" making reference to Rachel Hansen and her family. I know that many of you are familiar with her story, but not all. This is Rachel and here is a link to her Caringbridge website. She died in June after a long battle with cancer; you'll get a good idea of where they are at after reading Jodi's last few journal entries (click on "Read Journal History"). This is the kind of faith I want.

Another family who has deeply touched me with their amazing walk of faith, is the Ferlaak family. Here is a link to their story. Jody also has a blog and you can find that here.

Both families are living out their faith with a peace that surpasses understanding. This isn't skin-deep faith, nor is it about religion - it is about having a personal relationship with the Lord.

The Lord is my light and my salvation

whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life -

of whom shall I be afraid?. . .

For in the day of trouble

he will keep me safe in his dwelling;

he will hide in the shelter of his tabernacle

and set me high up a rock. . .

I am still confident of this:

I will see the goodness of the Lord

in the land of the living.

Wait for the Lord;

be strong and take heart

and wait for the Lord.

Psalm 27:1, 5, 13-14

purpose in ALL things

The following entry contains excerpts from the book "God Moments" by Alan D. Wright:

It was one moment that transformed every other in James Cameron's life. James Cameron is a man whose life was made by a God Moment.

In Marion, Indiana, 1930, a furious mob of thousands held a beaten-but-innocent boy in its trap. They held vengeance in their hearts and the law in their hands.

James Cameron was 16 years old the night it happened. He was riding around with two friends who convinced him to help them steal. When the victim they planned to rob stepped from the car, James recognized him as a faithful shoe shine customer. James ran away and soon after, heard gunshots. Later that night, he was arrested for the murder of his former customer and rape of the victim's girlfriend.

While James and his two friends were incarcerated, a furious mob assaulted the jailhouse. Unprotected by the sheriff, the three were seized by the angry crowd and beaten. Then came the God Moment. The two guilty boys were already gone, their limp bodies hanging from the tree. Then the noose drew tightly around James Cameron's neck. What happened next only James Cameron knows for sure. A sweet and distinct voice, unlike any he had ever heard called out: "TAKE THIS BOY BACK. HE HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH ANY RAPING OR KILLING."

Then, more suddenly than it had begun, chaos turned to calm. The white crowd parted, making room for the bewildered and beaten black boy to hobble back to jail. In the midst of the most harrowing moment of his life, James Cameron heard God. It was a moment that changed his life, giving him a sense of purpose that led him for 75 years.

In times of great difficulty, we often find ourselves feeling hopeless and confused. The world we live in just does not make sense. Be assured, however, that our heavenly Father can work with even the most horrid of circumstances! This hope has become increasingly clear to me with the passing of time. When I scrapbook about tragic events, I look for God's redeeming hand. I don't always find answers but I always find Him.

We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Journaling Ideas: Take a look at a time of difficulty in your own life. How did that experience change you? How did it shape your character? Who was introduced into your life at that time? If you have experienced a loss, describe the impact that person has had on your life? How has God used that "story" to positively impact others' lives?

Hyalophora Cecropia...

also known as "The Very Hungry Caterpillar." I was watering our lilac bushes and nearly jumped out of my skin when I saw it!

I'll be back tomorrow with some faithbooking inspiration. Have a great night - T

The Lineup

As I mentioned in an earlier post, Drew and his brother are moving to Michigan within the next couple of weeks. I captured this shot for the boys.

Happy Birthday Cindy!

Though you might not always feel it, you don't look a day over 25!

hint**hint**hint**

A hint for the theme of next weekend's crop lesson...

1. we really did this, 2. they MADE me do this

There is a reasonable explanation for these photos.

simply unavoidable.

Seriously, another Calvin & Hobbes moment.

Journaling Ideas: How do you like to spend your leisure time? Are you a people-person or do you prefer time alone? What are your favorite books? How about your favorite television shows or movies? Do you stick to the same television channels and/or radio stations? What are your hobbies and interests? Do you have a favorite chair or spot on the couch? Describe "the perfect day." Create a scrapbook page about yourself or someone you love using some of these ideas!

family portrait.

If you have several hours to spare, you may want to "Simpsonize" your family!

A Tangible Remembrance

My sister-in-law Amy just sent this StarTribune article to me today. You may have noticed their link (Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep) on my blog. Amy introduced me to this wonderful network of photographers a couple of years ago.

I was 14 weeks pregnant when we lost our third child. Being an avid scrapbooker, I had already begun my baby's album. When we discovered the sad news at a routinue OB appointment, I was devastated. Friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues reached out to us during that time. Their kindness touched me deeply and I saved every email and card. I also took pictures of every flower, book, and meal that was delivered. Instead of trashing my baby's album, I used it to pour out my grief. It holds the only photos of my child (from the ultrasound) and is a tangible remembrance of that brief life and two others that followed.

When a loved one dies, we pour over their photos; it is the only way to hold them close. When our memories fade, we often use photos to help us recall special moments and details. We don't simply "forget" they ever existed.

Whether a woman carried a child for four, six, or eight months - she spent every waking and sleeping moment with that child. Hopes, dreams, and memories were made. What a wonderful gift these photographers offer - a tangible remembrance.

For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother's womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
My frame was not hidden from you
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth;
your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in your book
before one of them came to be.

Psalm 139:13-16

looking down from above.

Some of you might think I'm really weird for sharing this story. (Those who don't, already know how weird I am :-) I pray for everything and relish answered prayer. Years ago, I began writing down my prayers (along with their answers) and was AMAZED at God's activity in my life. My faith grew and I began to pray more boldly, with great detail. I "put Him to the test" so to speak. There is nothing like noticing His hand, nothing like noticing Him - it gave me the desire for MORE.

So, back to my story. Meeley has been feeling a little down with his friend leaving. The other morning, he came to me while I was cleaning and told me that a baby bird had hit the window. He said it was just lying there like a ball of feathers. I went over to the window to take a peek. We stood there for a while waiting for some sign of life. There was none. I told him that it probably broke its neck and my son made a comment about it being a HORRIBLE summer. Then I said, "Let's pray for the bird." Looking over the bird from the window we prayed, asking God to heal it.

We talked about burying the bird (assuming it was dead) and Meeley decided to hop right on it. I said, "Let's wait a little while, we don't want to bury the bird if it's still alive." About 30 minutes had passed and the bird still hadn't moved. I gave Meeley permission to go outside ahead of me with the promise he wouldn't touch it. He ran outside. I was just getting ready to open the window to give him another "do not touch it" reminder, when I saw him standing there wide-eyed. I looked down and the bird was all perky, sitting and looking around!!!!!! Meeley took a step a little closer and the bird flew away!!!

Now that was a God Moment! We gave God a high five (it's something we do here) and thanked Him for healing the little bird.

But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all humankind. (Job 12:7-10)